Ísafjarðardjúp is one of the deepest and most extensive fjord systems in the
Westfjords of Iceland and represents one of the region’s most
distinctive natural features. The fjord cuts deep into the Westfjords peninsula and is
often simply referred to as “the Djúp”.
In early historical sources, the entire fjord was known as Ísafjörður, while the
name Ísafjarðardjúp originally described only the deep channels branching
from the main fjord. Today, the name is used for the entire fjord system.
At its mouth, Ísafjarðardjúp is approximately 20 km wide between
Grænuhlíð and Óshlíð, narrowing further inland to around 7–10 km.
The road distance from the mouth of the fjord to the inner end at
Ísafjörður is about 120 km.
Fjords and bays
Numerous fjords and inlets branch off from Ísafjarðardjúp.
On the southern side of the fjord system are:
On the northern side of the fjord lie:
The Jökulfirðir fjords
North of Ísafjarðardjúp lie the remote and dramatic
Jökulfirðir,
a sparsely populated region characterised by steep mountains, long narrow fjords,
and unspoiled wilderness.
Notable fjords and bays in the Jökulfirðir area include:
- Leirufjörður
- Reykjarfjörður (Jökulfirðir)
- Trékyllisvík
- Hrafnsfjörður
- Langafjörður
Towns and villages
Four main settlements are located along Ísafjarðardjúp:
Islands
Three well-known islands lie within Ísafjarðardjúp:
The islands play an important role in nature conservation and birdlife in the region.
In particular, Vigur is renowned for its large eider duck
colonies and diverse bird population.
With its vast fjord system, historic fishing communities, wildlife-rich islands,
and dramatic mountain landscapes, Ísafjarðardjúp is one of Iceland’s most diverse and
captivating natural regions — a destination where culture, history, and raw nature
come together.
Ísafjarðardjúp er áhugaverður staður á Íslandi sem vert er að heimsækja.